Reference   10452
 

Charming Petit Chateau in the Vendee region, France. Village. Close La Rochelle and Atlantic Beaches

Europe / France / Pays de la Loire / Fontenay le Comte


Close To   Niort (30 Kms)
Click above to view more photos.

 

Description

Cristallin, a petit chateau of great charm, sits on the edge of the small and tranquil village of Charzais, hidden away behind stone walls and magnificent iron gates. There is a large heated pool (with security cover) in the 4500m² park like grounds which are dotted with statues, fruit trees, grape vines, and huge trees including an ancient magnolia grandiflora. This is a beautiful sprawling french country garden, unmanicured and a true delight to discover. This gas centrally heated residence which also has several fireplaces would make a marvellous venue for a family Christmas. Ideally suited to groups of friends or large families holidaying together, the property is entirely at the disposal of the guests with exclusive use of the pool. The rooms have an air of faded grandeur and have been decorated with furniture and objects collected by the owners from the local antique shops. The style of the property could be described as shabby chic. Comfortable beds, quality linens.

Charzais is situated 33 miles North East of the coastal resort of La Rochelle (airport), on the edge of the beautiful woodland Mervent Forest National Park, with its lakes, beaches and lovely walks. It is 1 mile from the historic town of Fontenay le Comte, with good supermarkets, a traditional Saturday market, bars and restaurants. Within 40 min are the sandy beaches of the Vendée and Charente Maritime, including La Rochelle, Ile de Ré, Les Sables d'Olonne and La Tranche sur Mer. If you want a change of pace then the tranquil setting of the Marais Poitevin, with its Venise Vert waterways are just 20 min away. Lake swimming and canoes available 5 mins drive. For kids of all ages the Futuroscope theme park is an hour away near Poitiers (airport), the history adventure park at Puy du Fou is an easy drive, and for the adults the local vineyards offer tastings plus of course the famous Cognac houses are within easy reach for tours and tastings. Bordeaux (airport) is 2 hours drive.

Neighborhood

Local activities swimming, tennis, walking, sailing, cycling, fishing, horse riding, golf, wind-surfing, water skiing

HISTORY
Legend has it that the village of Charzais derives its name from a contraction of 'Cour des Sarrazais' - the Court of the Saracens. In the eighth century many defeated saracens worked as serfs on the land around Charzais. Until the early twentieth century, the walled garden in which Cristallin stands was still known as 'La Cours'. In the mid-nineteenth century the chateau was owned by Dr Chevallereau, a foremost Parisian eye doctor. It was he who named the property Cristallin, meaning 'clear vision'. The doctor would travel from Paris with his entourage to spend the summer months at Cristallin. Among his visitors was the Impressionist painter Madelaine Fleury who studied under Claude Monet. Her painting of a local ruin, 'Chateau de La Citardierre' is among the paintings which cover the salon walls.

About Us

We are a professional couple from NZ and now spending time between France and NZ. We speak French and English. We have no children however are open to children staying in our property.

Destination

Looking for a house in Cyprus. Must have pool and preferable a seaview. We are visiting friends in June 2008 and need accommodation for one week. thanks.


 

Details

Type   Other
Sleeps   >12
Bathrooms   2
Swimming Pool   Outdoor Private
Surroundings   Countryside
Bedrooms   >6
    
Air Conditioning   No

 
Children Welcome   Yes
Smoking Inside   No
Exchange Cars   No
Pets Welcome   Yes
Disabled Access   No
    

 
Updated   2008-01-05 (yyyy-mm-dd)

 

Destination

Cyprus, Open
2008-06-09  to  2008-06-12
7 - 7 days

 
Are you interested in this offer?
Already a Premium member? Log On to contact the owner.
 
Basic membership? Basic members cannot contact other members, you must Log On and Upgrade to the Premium membership plan.
 
Not a member? To contact our members, you must Join the Premium membership plan.
 
 
Add to Favorites | Tell a Friend | Print